Dear Professor Whale by Megumi Iwasa is a follow up to Yours Sincerely, Giraffe, which I missed somehow. If you have missed the first like me, no worries, the connection is quickly explained. Now that Professor Whale has retired, he writes many letters to "You, Whoever You Are, Who Lives on the Other Side of the Horizon". Seal and Pelican are busy delivering the letters and Penguin is now teaching. Although he is happy his friends are doing so well, Whale wants a special friend; who might call him by a friendly sort of name. Like Whaley, maybe, instead of "Professor." The letters bring penguins, whales, and seals together in the famous Whale Point Olympics, where the winners are friendship and humor.

Dear Professor Whale is a cute illustrated story that will appeal most to emerging readers. I did find the illustrations to be a little simplistic, almost childish. It did not seem like they were intended to, as some books do. The story of a whale seeking the kind of friendships and comradery that those around him have is nice, and the idea of searching for a new nickname or persona is one that people of all ages might relate to. The continuing tales of penpals, the whale olympics, and so on were nice. They flowed well together and had some imaginative and creative moments. I liked it but it just never really grabbed me in a way that would get me excited about it, or going back to read the previous book.

This was an enjoyable follow up story to Yours Sincerely, Giraffe. I have not read this first title but still enjoyed the characters in this story. Professor Whale writes many letters to reach out beyond his home at Whale Point. When he receives one back from a young whale named Wally, from Otto Island, Professor Whale starts thinking of long ago when they would compete in the whale olympics. Through this connection with Wally, another Olympic event is organized for the whales, seals, and penguins.
At first I was thinking this was going to be a picture book, but this is for a bit older age level, maybe second or third graders.
Thanks to Myrick Marketing and Media and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this e-copy and offer my honest review, my opinions are my own.
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I love Megumi Iwasa books! The last one about the whale and the penguin was wonderful! This one is kind of a part two. I don;t think it's really necessary to have read the first to appreciate the second, but really, the first one introduces the characters Whale and Penguin. This book might be a good read when the Olympics is held again, but anytime is a good time to me! Pleasant little stories for 2-3 graders, younger with help. Great illustrations, too!

In this sequel to "Yours Sincerely, Giraffe", Professor Whale reconnects with old friends and helps restart an old tradition. A good early chapter book for international schools, as the animals transcend any one culture. Review based on an ARC from NetGalley.

'Dear Professor Whale' by Megumi Iwasa with illustrations by Jun Takabatake is a book set in the same world as 'Yours Sincerely, Giraffe.' This time we meet some new letter writing characters.

Professor Whale lives near Whale Island. He's now retired, and he's lonely, so he starts writing to anyone out there who will respond. He gets a few responses, then one from a younger whale. Professor Whale may have known and competed with the young whale's father in the Whale Point Olympics. This makes him sad, but when some old friends show up, they decide to throw another Olympics. What follows is a series of games where the spirit of goodwill and friendship is more important than winning.

I adored this charming novel, just like it's predecessor. The illustrations are simple and sweet. The story is also.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Gecko Press, Myrick Marketing & Media, LLC, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.

Probably one of the most adorable concept and illustrations that I have ever read; so feel good and pleasant.